Learning on the Journey

Frugal Living

Food and gas prices are going up, everyone knows that. I think ways to cut back have been on everyone’s mind these days, especially single income families (and many 2-income families as well).

I’m starting a little series on frugal living. I want to share–and ask for your input–on ways to be good stewards of the resources God has blessed us with. Frugality doesn’t have to be a bad word! Learning to be careful with our finances simply enables us to live as well as possible on what God has blessed us with.

Some time back, I did an informal survey of some stay-at-home moms I’m acquainted with online. Although I didn’t ask anyone to share incomes, most of them volunteered that their families lived on less than $50,000 per year, many of them on much, much less. All had at least two children, most four or more. Most had little if any debt, including car notes.

They shared wonderful ideas on how to save money. But the general consensus was that the biggest factor in making it on one income is attitude. They believe that the sacrifices they make are worth it, and they take care to live with joy and contentment and not fall into a poverty mindset. They’re thankful.

So whether you’re a stay at home mom or not, what are your favorite frugal tips? Do you think that attitude is as vital as what we do with our cash? Any other thoughts?

I always focus on quality time with my four children rather than giving them things. We are a one-income family and my husband is a police-officer, therefore, outside of Birthdays and Christmas, which I save and budget for, we can’t afford a lot of extras. We enjoy playing and having a picnic at a local park (when it’s not this hot!), and playing at home together. Also, we take advantage of our local library. Every month they offer story times and craft classes, and best of all- it’s free. We always participate in the summer reading club. The prizes received for reading books allowed the children to have things like pizza night and free ice cream at Scarlet Scoop. My son also enjoys the free kids building workshops at Home depot and Lowes. My girls love to cook with me and I try to bake with them at least once week. With one income, you have to get creative if you are on a strict budget. However, I know that my children are a lot better off having my time and enjoying things together as a family. It’s much better than doing something highly priced and without family interaction.